More protection of Albany heritage

22/07/2005 12:00 AM

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22/07/05

A $50,000 State Government grant has helped restore a 120-year-old Albany landmark that has played several important roles in the town’s history.

The Rocks - which has been a vice-regal residence, hospital, school and hostel at various times during its life - has been returned to its former glory, thanks to the grant and the commitment of its owners.

Heritage Minister Francis Logan, who visited The Rocks today, said it was like many heritage properties that had an embroidered history combining many interesting stages over many years.

“The Rocks was originally a private residence but has been put to diverse community uses over the years and has played a significant role in the history of Albany and the many hundreds of people who have used or lived in it,” Mr Logan said.

“Built in 1844, it has been restored to its original state and is now a travel getaway in the historic town.”

The $50,000 allowed the owners to undertake conservation works on the property, including the replacement of the aluminium windows and doors with jarrah frames to restore its original look and atmosphere.

The Minister also visited The Albany Club to announce its interim heritage listing.

“In Western Australia, only the Weld Club in Perth is older than this gentlemen’s club, which was established in 1894,” he said.

“No private club outside the metropolitan area has occupied the same building for so long.

“The Albany Club is a great example of how the English tradition of the gentlemen’s club was transported to the colonies to consolidate a power base for the new ruling elites.”

Mr Logan’s announcement signals the opening of a public comment period about the heritage listing of the site, which closes on August 9.

With its listing, The Albany Club becomes eligible for money under the State Government’s Heritage Grants program.

Last year, three historic Albany places received grants totalling $59,700. Albany House ($5,000) and Hawthorndene ($4,700) received a grant to prepare conservation plans and The Rocks received $50,000.

During the 2004-05 financial year, 77 places were included in the State Register of Heritage Places - and 40 of them are in Albany.

“The Government has a clear vision for our State, to make WA a better place to live in by protecting our unique lifestyle,” Mr Logan said.

“Heritage listing helps us to maintain the lifestyle we have come to enjoy and cherish.”

The Minister encouraged the community to get behind conserving places of significance to ensure the register reflected community views and values.

A full list of Albany sites on the State Register of Heritage is available from the Heritage Council of WA’s website: http://www.heritage.wa.gov.au